Androgen-Deprivation Bone Loss in Patients With Prostate Cancer

An increasing number of men with prostate cancer being treated with androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) are at increased risk for developing osteoporosis. Osteoporosis often is overlooked in men and can have significant adverse economic effects and reduce quality of life, particularly if a fracture occurs. Nurses play a major role in identifying men who are at risk because of lifestyle factors and ADT. Men receiving ADT should undergo regular screening with bone densitometry to detect osteoporosis and monitor the effectiveness of therapy. Nurses also have a major role in administering medications to promote bone health. Many implications exist for patient education related to bone health in men.